Five Hot Spots in Lexington KY

Lexington KY is home to a variety of unique,funky hangouts. You won’t want miss the Distillery District.

Lexington has been named one of the top 10 smart cities,so its residents are highly educated. There are many educational institutions in Lexington,including the University of Kentucky and Transylvania University.

Festival of the Bluegrass

The Festival of the Bluegrass,a music event celebrating traditional bluegrass,is held every year. It was originally organized by the Cornett family of Georgetown,Kentucky. The first event was held on Walnut Hall Farm in 1974,which is part of the Kentucky Horse Park. It was later moved to Masterson Station Park,a city park on the north side of Lexington.

In 2023,a new festival called Spirit of the Bluegrass will take the place of the Festival of the Bluegrass. The new festival will share many of its predecessor’s characteristics,but won’t feature the Sunday morning gospel concerts that were part the old Festival of the Bluegrass.

Bluegrass festivals require a lot of time and effort from unpaid volunteers and community involvement. It is important to support these events in order to keep them alive.

The Kentucky Horse Park

The Kentucky Horse Park is a must-see for all equestrian enthusiasts. The Horse Park,located in Lexington,showcases horses of all breeds through daily equine shows,three outstanding museums and carriage rides and horse-drawn tour. The park also hosts the most comprehensive schedule of equestrian competitions in North America. Spectators can witness steeplechase races,cross country competitions,polo,and the only four-star event in the world,the Land Rover Kentucky Three-Day Event.

Lexington is known for its genuine hospitality and authentic experience. Lexingtonians enjoy the history and beauty of the rolling pastures surrounding the city,even though many people prefer the modern conveniences. There are many picturesque parks in the city that provide opportunities for outdoor sports,such as biking,running and hiking. Families can enjoy a picnic at one of the many public gardens in the city,like the urban Woodland Park and Jacobson Park. In addition,the city has a variety of shopping centers and boutiques.

The Distillery District

For those who want to taste and experience the rich history of bourbon,there is no better place than Lexington. You can tour one of the world’s most famous distilleries,or sit at a world class bourbon-bar. Also,you can sample local craft breweries as well as a variety cocktail bars.

The city’s tight-knit business community has made a name for itself as an up-and-coming neighborhood where the future is rooted in the past. All over the city,new restaurants and businesses are opening. The city’s chefs have a knack for incorporating bourbon into everything from appetizers to entrees. You’ll also find plenty of bluegrass music in restaurants,clubs,and at the Railbird Festival.

Manchester Street was lined with rickhouses,and other buildings,that housed a number bourbon distillers. The area was revitalized in 2008 by local entrepreneurs who created a lively downtown destination full of entertainment. The neighborhood has two active bourbon distilleries as well as other historic sites.

Southern Lights

Named one of Kentucky’s Top 10 Winter/Holiday Festivals and Events by Kentucky Travel and Tourism,Southern Lights is a favorite holiday tradition throughout the Bluegrass. The three-mile driving route of dazzling lights features a variety equine and pop culture displays.

Visitors are encouraged to park their vehicles after the driving route and visit the Holiday Festival on foot. This non-driving portion of Southern Lights features the Kentucky Horse Park Gift Shop,craft vendors,seasonal music entertainment and an exotic petting zoo along with pony and camel rides. Other food vendors and the Bit & Bridle Restaurant will be on hand to serve guests.

Tickets are priced at $15 for cars (up to seven passengers). RVs,Limousines and Minibuses cost $35 each. School buses are priced at $125. Admission is free for children 2 and under. The event runs from November 17 to December 31,except on the evenings of Christmas Eve and Thanksgiving.